Hope in Action: April Updates from Kansas CASA

Updates, events, and ways to support CASA—see what’s happening this month!

Welcome to CASA on the Range, your source for updates, insights, and stories from Kansas CASA Association that drive our mission forward. Stay informed, stay inspired, and join us in making a difference.

April is a month of reflection, celebration, and action for all of us at Kansas CASA Association. As we recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to ensure every child grows up in a safe, nurturing environment. It’s also Volunteer Appreciation Week, and we are honored to celebrate the incredible individuals who give their time, energy, and hearts to advocate for children in foster care across Kansas.

Throughout this month, we are proud to showcase the 2024 CASA Volunteer of the Year Nominees—a remarkable group of individuals whose dedication to children is truly inspiring. We are also grateful to the four judges who generously donated their time to review and score the nominations. You can find their stories and highlights on our social media and on our website at www.kansascasa.org/news-events. We also encourage you to connect with your local CASA program to learn about events and opportunities happening in your area during April.

You may also notice a sea of pinwheels planted in communities across the state. The pinwheel has become a national symbol of child abuse prevention, representing the whimsy and joy that all children should experience. Each pinwheel is a poignant reminder of the bright futures that every child deserves—and the role each of us can play in making that future possible.

This Child Abuse Prevention Month, I encourage you to find ways to get involved, raise awareness, and support children and families in your community. Together, from rural to urban communities, CASA is here to make a difference across the state of Kansas.

Warmly,
Deena Gage
State Director, Kansas CASA Association, Inc.

Every child in foster care deserves someone who will speak up for them in court and help them find a safe, permanent home. CASA volunteers are trained community members who advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

Watch the video to learn how you can be the voice that makes a difference—and take the first step toward becoming a CASA volunteer today.

Are you ready to make a difference and change a child's story?

On March 26, 98 people from across the country joined us for a powerful and informative virtual training hosted by the Department of Homeland Security’s Know2Protect campaign. Kansas CASA Association is proud to support this national public awareness initiative focused on:

✔️ Preventing and combating online child exploitation
✔️ Educating the public on how to report online enticement and victimization
✔️ Providing resources for victims, survivors, and their supporters

This free training brought together advocates, parents, and professionals from coast to coast—all committed to protecting children in the digital age. If you missed it, we encourage you to learn more and explore valuable resources at Know2Protect. If you were unable to attend this training, we plan on hosting this event again in the future. Stay tuned for details!

Keeping kids safe online is a shared responsibility, and together, we can make a difference. Learn more about the one year milestone of this important campaign here.

Even though the day has passed, it’s not too late to join us in spreading awareness and support for children in foster care.

📸 If you wore blue this month, snap a photo, post it on social media, and tag Kansas CASA—let’s keep filling feeds with hope and advocacy!

You can also still make a difference by donating today:
https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=X9HSGDFH9ZLVS

Every gift helps provide a voice for a child who needs one. 💙

Our Board of Directors plays a vital role in guiding the Kansas CASA Association’s mission. These dedicated individuals help shape our future, ensuring that we continue to provide meaningful support to CASA programs across the state. Click below to learn more about our board members and their commitment to children in need.

Have you checked out the Kansas CASA Shop lately? We’re loving the response to our two new sweatshirt designs—cozy, meaningful, and perfect for showing your support for children in foster care.

Every item you purchase helps raise awareness and supports the vital work happening in CASA programs across 63 Kansas counties. Whether you choose direct shipping or local pickup in Baldwin City, it’s easy to shop and make a difference.

🛍️ Visit the Kansas CASA Shop to see what’s new, place your order, and help spread the word!
📸 Don’t forget to snap a pic in your gear and tag us on social media—we love seeing our supporters represent CASA across the state!